Vehicle

2002 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)

Review

I bought this car with about 20000 miles at less than a year old for $15500.
I'm at 138000 with a private party value of $4500, it's been going up in value the past 3 years!
An absolute joy to drive with the 4 cyl turbo and 34mpg.
It seems to be a timeless styling blck/blck shines nicely. Synthetic only!! can't stress that enough and use the VW coolant. everyday garages will mess this car up like a bad hangover.
I found an old VW specialized mechanic, won't let any other cars in the garage and has kept it running well for reasonable $. Replaced, timing belt/water pump at 80k, both frnt window regulators, 3 sets of tires/brakes, 2CV joints, 1 set of rotors,fuel pump at 136k due to ethanol

Favorite Features

nite time lights, the engine and transmission strong and percise. cruising at 80mph I step on the gas for a Turbo shot to a quick 100mph - The engine protect sensors to stop! stop! if oil pressure is low, coolant low and the aluminum engine/ valvale are in danger of melt down. Timeless styling, has it's getting older now but can run with the new dogs with gas mpg, performance and overall features; sunroof, heated leather, Tiptronic and 4 cyl Turbo- it's underestimated in the parking lot and on the highway everyday

Suggested Improvements

lower grill pieces were held with plastic clips, I siliconed them in place.
the heater core is sooo sensitive to no VW coolant, clogged twice and had CLR pumped through to clear buildup $40 vs $1200 core/radiator replacement at dealer, sunroof drain prone to clog, strange coolant hose beside Turbo has a 90 degree bend and a heat sheild; blew it out at 135k should replace as maint item- check engine lite comes on for brake dust build up-
this car is a tank, but not for the cheap gas and go type- it takes a skilled mechanic, 93 octane and full synthetic oil to give back performance.
I do carry AAA plus, had it tow twice as not to damage anything else when fule pump died & coolant hose blew

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